Six priorities and one principle to guide global action and shape the next decade for water.
Water and sanitation are human rights and universal access our goal
Access to safe water and sanitation is a fundamental human right — yet billions remain excluded. Achieving universal access is not a matter of choice, but a responsibility that must be fulfilled for everyone, everywhere. Political will must turn accountability into action.
Financing water is critical for health and economic development
Water is not a cost centre — it is a growth engine. Water investments create jobs and deliver high economic returns and savings in health care costs. Every dollar invested returns up to four, five or even more dollars to economies. Agriculture, food production and most industries are highly dependent on water. Yet the sector remains underfunded. True champions invest early, smart and at scale — we can't afford not to.
Adapt now — because the climate crisis hits through water
Water is the messenger of climate change — more intense floods and longer droughts tell the story. Rising global temperatures are disrupting the water cycle that connects us all. But water is not only the lens through which climate impacts become visible — it is the entry point for effective adaptation and resilience building.
Water connects people, communities, countries and sectors
Water transcends boundaries and connects us all. Effective action depends on strong partnerships — across sectors, institutions and borders. No single actor can solve the water crisis alone.
From Conferences to Continuous Action
SDG 6 has been one of the greatest success stories of international cooperation, helping billions gain access to water and sanitation. But one match does not win the tournament. With clear future goals, targets and a common game plan, we can unite behind one shared ambition and win the game for all. Today, water is spread across too many leagues. The world waited 46 years between the first and second UN Water Conferences — we cannot afford another pause. Regular convenings, stronger cooperation and sustained political leadership are needed to keep water on the global scoreboard.
Accelerate implementation and turn proven solutions into winning goals
There is no shortage of global commitments, strategies and plans to manage water resources. Proven solutions exist — from wastewater treatment to climate-resilient WASH. The real challenge is delivery at speed and scale. It is time to move from plans and pilots to performance on the ground.
Tackle inequalities and reach the most marginalised first
In the global water game, too many are still left behind. Inequality defines who gets access and who does not — driving further poverty, gender injustice and exclusion. Real progress means prioritising those furthest behind and ensuring that everyone gets a fair chance to participate and benefit.
This year's water conference will define the future of water and sanitation. Every voice and action matters. You would like to team up and use the campaign in your event?